How To Start A Business in South Sudan

How to Start a Business in South Sudan - Step by Step Guide

Starting a business in South Sudan involves a number of steps for both local and foreign investors. Below is a step-by-step guide, including fees, taxes, and expected durations for both groups.

Step-by-Step Guide for Locals

1. Choose Your Business Structure: Common business structures include Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, and Limited Liability Company (LLC).
2. Register Your Business: Business registration is done through the South Sudan Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture (SSCCIA).
   South Sudan Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture (SSCCIA)
   Fees: Registration fees range from SSP 2,000 to SSP 10,000 (approximately USD 10 to USD 50).
3. Obtain a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN): Apply for a TIN from the South Sudan Revenue Authority (SSRA).
   South Sudan Revenue Authority (SSRA)
   Fees: Free.
4. Register for VAT: If your business has an annual turnover exceeding SSP 100 million, you must register for VAT with the SSRA.
   Fees: Free, but monthly VAT returns are required.
5. Register with the Social Security Corporation: Employers are required to register employees with the Social Security Corporation (SSC).
   Social Security Corporation (SSC)
   Fees: Contribution: 6% of employee’s monthly salary (3% employer, 3% employee).
6. Open a Business Bank Account: After business registration, you can open a business bank account with a local bank.
   Fees: Varies by bank, but initial deposit fees generally range from SSP 2,000 to SSP 5,000 (approximately USD 10 to USD 25).
7. Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses: Depending on the type of business, you may need additional permits, such as for importing/exporting goods or food-related businesses.
   Fees: Varies by business type.

Step-by-Step Guide for Foreign Investors

1. Choose Your Business Structure: Foreign investors can set up a Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Joint Venture (JV) with a South Sudanese partner.
2. Register Your Business: Foreign investors must register their business with the South Sudan Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture (SSCCIA).
   South Sudan Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture (SSCCIA)
   Fees: Registration fees range from SSP 2,000 to SSP 10,000 (approximately USD 10 to USD 50).
3. Obtain a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN): Apply for a TIN from the South Sudan Revenue Authority (SSRA).
   South Sudan Revenue Authority (SSRA)
   Fees: Free.
4. Register for VAT: If the foreign investor’s business has an annual turnover exceeding SSP 100 million, they must register for VAT with the SSRA.
   Fees: Free, but monthly VAT returns are required.
5. Register with the Social Security Corporation (SSC): Foreign businesses with employees must also register with the SSC.
   Social Security Corporation (SSC)
   Fees: Contribution: 6% of employee’s monthly salary (3% employer, 3% employee).
6. Obtain Work Permits and Visas (if necessary): Foreign investors wishing to work in South Sudan need to obtain the appropriate visas and work permits.
   Ministry of Foreign Affairs, South Sudan
   Fees: Work visa application fee: SSP 10,000 (approximately USD 50).
7. Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses: Foreign investors must apply for relevant business licenses and permits, depending on the type of business.
   Fees: Varies depending on the business activity.
8. Open a Business Bank Account: Foreign investors must open a business bank account in South Sudan.
   Fees: Varies by bank, but initial deposit fees generally range from SSP 2,000 to SSP 5,000 (approximately USD 10 to USD 25).

Estimated Duration

• For Locals: 1-2 weeks
• For Foreign Investors: 2-4 weeks (including obtaining necessary work permits and visas)

Useful Resources

• South Sudan Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture (SSCCIA)
• South Sudan Revenue Authority (SSRA)
• Social Security Corporation (SSC)
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs, South Sudan